New Zealand has become the latest country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Lawmakers there voted in favour of a Bill to amend marriage law making it the 13th nation to do so.

MPs and those in the public gallery applauded and cheered as it was announced the vote passed with 77 votes to 44. While those opposed to the Bill quietly left the public gallery.

After a 2-hour debate MPs there were able to have their say on the Marriage Equality Bill. During the debate many members had to share their speaking slots with others so most could speak.

Last weekend the Irish Constitutional Convention decided to recommend a change in our legislation to allow for same-sex marriage.

New Zealand now joins Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Uruguay where gay marriage is fully recognised.

Members in the public gallery erupted into song after the vote was passed: